Cheaper tolls on Severn Bridge start today

Driving to Wales? It's now cheaper to cross the Severn Bridge thanks to lower toll charges.

Drivers crossing the Severn Bridge will pay less money at the toll booths from today thanks to a reduction in charges.

The VAT has been removed from charges – a first step towards abolishing the charges completely by the end of the year.

The reduction in the toll charges today (8 January) coincides with the two crossings returning to public ownership; responsibility for the operations, maintenance and vehicle charges for the bridges will be managed by Highways England.

Around 25 million journeys are made each year across the two bridges, and the UK government said estimates show the abolition of the tolls could boost south Wales’ economy by £100m a year – saving regular motorists more than £1,400 a year.

What are the new costs to cross the Severn Bridge?

Vehicle category

Old daily toll charges

Daily toll charges from 8 January 2018

Category 1 (Cars and other

£6.70

£5.60

Category 2 (Goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, small buses)

£13.40

£11,20

Category 3 (Goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, large buses)

£20.00

£16.70

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns, said: “The UK government’s decision to reduce the tolls will cut costs for commuters and tourists, and present exciting opportunities for businesses operating in Wales and over the border.

“I’m absolutely sure that reducing and then removing the tolls will boost Welsh employment and strengthen Wales’ position within the United Kingdom – that is why I made it my number one priority as Secretary of State.”